Vermont: No Permit for Open Carry

Vermont’s unique state constitution is the reason behind its longstanding deregulation of gun rights—such a constitutional safeguard is the best possible way to secure strong Second Amendment rights for future generations.

Last year saw the deregulation of concealed carry—resulting in the removal of any requirement for a permit in order to carry a firearm, and often referred to as “permitless carry” or “constitutional carry”—in Kansas and Maine. Additionally, the legislature in New Hampshire passed a bill allowing the same, which was unfortunately vetoed by Gov. Maggie Hassan. West Virginia and Indiana have more recently seen bills drafted that would recognize “permitless” carry for their residents.

What we witness here is a heartening trend as states across the nation recognize the value of dropping burdensome restrictions on law-abiding citizens. As the deregulation movement picks up steam, many are looking to the example of Vermont, which has never required a permit for open or concealed carry—and enjoys some of the lowest violent crime rates in the country.